Monday, January 30, 2012

You might be surprised to learn that the term 'Friendship Bracelets' is harder to define than you thought. That's because friendship bracelets come in so many forms and can be made from almost any material or combination of materials.

If your vision of a friendship bracelet is a multi-colored woven bracelet, you will need to expand that thought.

They can be made of cord, Irish linen, embroidery floss, beads, stones, leather, rubber, lanyards or thread. They can also be made of stainless steel, sterling silver, gold or other metals. And, the list doesn't stop there.

If two or more of these materials are combined, you come up with something clearly unique. Think about the combination of shiny or sparkly threads with sterling silver. Or, how about beautiful colored silk with crystal beads or sterling silver components?

You can begin to see just how many types of bracelets can be included in this category.

Add to that the different versions, including single strand, double strand or multiple strand, special occasion bracelets and stacking bands.

If the friendship band is woven, it can include letters or a person's name and can be fabricated using any number of patterns or designs.

A few of these designs are called broken ladder, candy stripes, chevron, double chevron, diamond, hearts, the wrap and double chain knot.

The possibilities for customization are endless, which may begin to explain the popularity of these bracelets with teens and young people.

If you are interested in making your own bracelet or bracelets, all one needs to do is visit YouTube to find a vast number of videos on this topic. Many are instructional in nature and teach the art of tying different knots to make different patterns.

There is no shortage of information and it is possible to find many sources for friendship bracelet patterns and supplies by searching on the internet.

Then there is the fact that these bracelets are called by different names. A few of these names are 'friendship bands', 'bands' and even 'Sweetie' bracelets.

In general, a friendship bracelet is defined as a bracelet given by one person to another person to express love, care and affection. Sometimes they are given to celebrate a special occasion, although no special occasion is required.

All around the world, friendship bracelets signify a special friendship or lasting relationship between two people.

A teen may give a friend a friendship bracelet, symbolizing a lasting friendship. A man may give his fiancé or wife a 'Sweetie' bracelet as a lasting reminder of his love. And don't forget that men are also happy recipients of friendship bracelets.

Numerous retailers offer choices for both men and women in all age groups.

A special occasion bracelet might be given by a bride to her maid of honor or a groom to his best man or groomsmen as a symbol of gratitude. If the bracelet incorporates metal elements, it could also be engraved, adding that extra special personal touch. Engraving your gift transforms it into something truly unique.

Friendship bracelets can range from casual or whimsical to elegant and sophisticated. The selection seems to be endless!

It could be that it's time to shower your friend or sweetheart with the gift of a bracelet that signifies your affection for them.

Carol D. writes articles and product reviews on topics ranging from friendship bracelets to fireplace screens to clogs. You can access extensive information on the many forms that friendship bracelets take by visiting her new site at http://www.buyfriendshipbracelets.org/friendship_bracelets.html and also see multiple resources for buying friendship bracelets online by viewing http://www.buyfriendshipbracelets.org